2008 Audi A6 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Audi A6 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A6 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A6 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Audi A6 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 2008 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A6 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A6 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2560 mm |
